Auto repair estimates necessary

To avoid speeding through your savings any faster than necessary, don't rush the work of getting auto repair estimates.

Angie Hicks

To avoid speeding through your savings any faster than necessary, don't rush the work of getting auto repair estimates.

Experts who are highly rated by our members say it's a good idea to get at least two and as many as four estimates before deciding where to take your car or truck for repairs, particularly for something pricey.

A member of Angie's List recently told our research team that his shock over an initial $1,160 estimate to replace the computer modulator on a 2003 Saturn Vue motivated him to seek the names of three highly rated auto shops near his home.

Their estimates were $400 to $500 less expensive than the original price he'd been quoted. He chose one of the top-rated companies, a family-owned operation, and was happy with the work and how he was treated throughout the process.

He told our staff that the business earned his trust not only by offering a lower price, but also by explaining everything that was done to repair the car.

Auto experts say it's a good idea to shop around for the right price and the right professional.

Highly rated auto repair experts note that while one mechanic might replace a problematic door handle, another might simply replace a broken spring in the handle and save you money.

Other factors that influence price fluctuations include the quality of parts used and whether a business pays mechanics by the job or by the hour.

Our research team suggests these tips for finding the right auto shop:

» See what you can learn about the company's reputation by checking with friends, family and neighbors as well as online review sites.

» Ask for references from any shop you're considering, and contact them. Ask how clearly the shop communicated, both about the estimated cost of repair and about the work that was done.

» Ask lots of questions before agreeing to have work done, including how the job is priced and what kind of warranty comes with the business' work. Also, make sure your vehicle warranty, or your insurance company, doesn't limit you to using a specific repair shop.

» Get a written estimate before agreeing to any work. At the end of the job, request a detailed invoice and check it over to make sure it includes no surprises.

» Consider whether a business' staff is accredited and with what organizations it's affiliated. Many states have auto industry associations. Examples of national associations include the Independent Auto Body Association and the Society of Collision Repair Specialists.

Ideally, a shop's technicians will carry ASE certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.